Tuesday, December 30, 2014

The Mural Fund Meeting 12/29/2014

The Mural Fund meeting at the Chamber of Commerce just closed.
Present were:
John Collins (Artists' Alliance)
Diane Shelly (Florida CraftArt)
Denise Deja (Citizen)
Derek Donnelly (Artist)
Frank Strunk (Artist)
Albie Mulcahy (Hair Master)
Jennifer Kosharek (Artist)
Anastacia Schrader (Banker/Regions pop u gallery)
Mr. Schrader (Citizen)
Willi Rudowsky (Wife of Hal Freedman)




I could do minutes of this meeting, but basically here is what happened...

1) It was decided by Diane Shelly, John Collins and Anastacia Schrader that the Indiegogo/Gofund Me money ($1177 presently) should go into an account held by Artists Alliance.

Derek Donnelly pushed the idea that the Woo mural damage requires painting the entire face, which would require a large portion of the money in the fund. I brought up that a restorer naed Carol Dameron viewed that damage in person and said t would be perfectly fixable.

After that it was decided funds will only be reimbursed for materials, not labor (a wise decision).

Any extra money will be kept in a fund for future repairs.

Other agendas pushed were a blackboard wall for short-term murals, which unknown to the three organizational leaders, has already been in existence for a year on the West wall of the Amsterdam bar, owned by John Cullen.

Diane Shelley also pushed the idea of putting term limits on murals, so they could be repainted (without touching on the obvious problems of who gets to paint over whose murals).

Jennifer Kosharek suggested artists act independently of these non-profits and negotiate their own walls with building owners.

 The meeting was barely in control, as Derek Donnelly seethed with open contempt, staring at Jennifer Kosharek and I and saying openly, out of turn, and for no apparent reason: "There are two people here I do not trust." on two or three occasions.

Jenifer Kosharek questioned the way Diane Shelley has handled the mural thing (something other artists have brought up privately, but are afraid to discuss). At that point, the following happened...

Derek Donnelly called Jennifer Kosharek a "Jack Off" clearly, out loud, across the table , and TWICE.

                                  *******While she was holding a 9 month baby!*******

It was an appalling moment, yet the meeting was not called to order (Robert's?). It was closed soon after that.

I published an abbreviated version of this on FB yesterday, and was basically told by several of the participants that I should have not published the sordid event. This, too, is how art works. In board rooms, with people pushing personal agendas and others' by proxy as well. This also includes low points, and casual savagery.

Whitewashing this kind of thing only encourages it. The attitude of several of those present is to sweep this under the rug, and keep it our dirty little secret, enabling the abuser while presenting an unreal image of a perfect, tourist-attracting city.

This is hardly unique to Saint Petersburg. Sadly, it (and worse) happens in every town and city in the world.

A nearly 100 response thread issued on FB...

But Derek Donnelly wasn't done. I received this unsolicited, ghost written, threatening/Bullying text from Derek on my phone...



Being threatened is nothing new for a critic or blogger.. I will gleefully avoid reviewing Derek's work at his request. I have more than enough to do as it is. I feel sorry for those in group shows with him, because they too will not be reviewed (Since I will be asked to leave!) and the gallerists as well.

 This kind of grade-school level bullying and arrogance does nothing to further the image of the arts anywhere. To support such an artist is to encourage this kind of behavior. Is this who we want to be?


Luis


*Note that seven days before this meeting, I warned two of the main participants that Mr. Donnelly had been bullying people around regarding this mural repair.




Friday, December 26, 2014

These calendars are avaliable from Jenifer Kosharek. I bought one and they are gorgeous in person. Jennifer can be contacted on Facebook. The calendars are $11 mailed, $5 picked up in Saint Petersburg Florida.

Me

This is what I look like....


Artist takes the initiative and begins the repair of the murals on the 600 blk.

Jennifer Kosharek has repaired her two murals as of Monday this week. Instead of waiting to see where the Indiegogo fundraiser goes and milking it, this single mother of four bought her own paint and proceeded to fix her two murals previously written over.

Jennifer Kosharek repainting part of her mural, "Frida",

New tenants on the 600 blk of Central Ave., St Petersburg

Where Blue Lucy was, a grilled cheese sandwich shop is going to open.

In the former Pale Horse space, a glass shop selling high-end bongs and other paraphernalia will be setting up shop.

Across the street, and the corner shop on the SWest end, the Scientologists are moving in. Expect the block to be littered with pamphlets.

--- Luis

 

Tuesday, December 23, 2014

To the Artists Alliance, Regions Bank and Gary Burnside

 Be exceedingly careful about who you put in place to oversee the restoration or replacement of the vandalized 600 block murals. Derek Donnelly ordered people on FB to not talk with the media about this, until he did, grabbing the limelight. This act of bullying has been followed by several others, reported publicly on FB and in private.

I was exposed to this myself in a series of texts from Mr. Donnelly.

In my opinion, putting someone in charge who has a clear-cut conflict of interest is a whopping mistake, more so atop undiplomatic leadership (which is as kindly as I can put it). I have spoken to other artists whose murals were damaged, and they're planning to fix them on their own. One already has. They could have all been repaired by now and the issue would be resolved.

The expectations of raising a lot of money through the Indie Go Go fund (at $600 as of this writing) are drawing out those who expect to benefit from it.

Please install competent leadership in charge of this project, someone who does not stand to benefit directly from the fundraising.

--- Luis Gottardi

PS. I have supported Derek Donnelly in the past. His gallery, from the day it opened until the day it closed, reviewed his work, including murals., publicized his events and more.  

You can see the hundreds of photos of Derek I have published here [Link] 

 

Saturday, December 20, 2014


Photographs of the defacing of the 600 blk murals by HTWOO, which is being investigated as a felony by Police. There is much macho blustering going on about this, with the usual suspects wanting to "break ten fingers" and more.
Acting like gangsters or a lynch mob is not going to further the cause of the Arts in Saint Petersburg.
My view is to let the police and the law do what they're supposed to do. This man has attacked the city.
There is a crowdfunding effort underway to restore the damaged murals.

It is unbelievable that the same man who was furiously ordering everyone not to speak with reporters, because it would give HTWOO and his ilk motivation, then goes and does exactly that.
Sorry, but your cred just dropped to zero in my book.
(Name witheld to protect the guilty)






On the Woo mural.






Electrical box.













Jennifer Koshrek's Frida





Stoic's Annunaki





 Derek Donnelly's Lizard King




Rebekah Lazaridis, Paper Moon.





 Jennifer Kosharek "Gretchen"




















mmmmm

Saturday, December 13, 2014

This Theory of Everything Weekend, Dec 13, 2014

It's been gloriously cool this week. The Arts Enclave has gone from possible dream to groundbreaking reality. Blue Lucy and Feathered Serpent are leaving their brick and mortar entities. Second Saturday is this weekend...
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We have placed book donation bins all over town to collect books for The Christmas Toy Shop. http://www.christmastoyshop.org/

We are accepting donations of new or gently used children and young adult books until December 18th.

You can find our donation bins at these participating locations:

St. Pete Shuffleboard Club
Banyan Cafe & Catering
Growing Up
Acupuncture and Herbal Therapies
Lonni's Sandwiches Downtown
Creative Clay
Small Business Warehousing (2135 5th Ave S, Ste A. It's 2 warehouses right next to each other, Small Business Warehousing is on the door. They are open 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM.)
The Flying Pig Taphouse
The Amsterdam
Rollin' Oats
The Hideway Bar
Rain Japanese Restaurant And Sushi Bar

Give the gift of reading this holiday season!!! Read and Write on!

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GULFPORT, FL---Don’t get your Tinsel in a Tangle…It's time to get your holiday cheer in gear! Support small business and independent artisans and crafters by shopping local! Gulfport Merchant's Association presents the 6th annual Holiday Hoopla on December 13, 2014 from 10am to 6pm. A portion of the proceeds from the event will benefit Operation Santa and Gulfport families in need.

Holiday Hoopla is a celebration of arts, crafts, foods, live music and roving holiday characters set in a waterfront atmosphere amid bright, twinkling, colorful lights. Stroll the decorated streets filled with talented exhibitors and unique shops and galleries. The festival will provide shoppers with one-of-a-kind gifts that cannot be found anywhere else, and all of your holiday shopping can be done in one place!

Visitors will be enchanted by a variety of festive and fun holiday-themed music, holiday carolers, dance performances, and roving street performers. Many types of entertainment will perform during the Hoopla, from local school bands & Choral groups and local musicians to area performing arts groups. Roving performers include Dickens characters and carolers.

Be sure to relax after all the excitement at one of the many Downtown restaurants, pubs, and cafes. Did you know? Gulfport was named one of six national small-town finalists in the “Best For Food” category during the 2011 Rand McNally/USA Today Road Rally? Visit our “village” during the Holiday Hoopla event for some of the best dining choices in Tampa Bay!

Whether you’re a Gulfport resident or a visitor from out of town, there’s plenty to see and do at Gulfport’s Holiday Hoopla Event. With over a half mile of shopping, food, fun, and holiday splendor this festive event will soon become a Tampa Bay holiday tradition!

The Gulfport Merchant’s Association gives back to the community all year round. During the Holiday Hoopla event donations will be collected for Operation Santa (New Toys/Gift cards, etc.), The Gulfport Senior Center Foundation (Non perishable food, toiletries & Pet Supplies). If you are able, please help these organizations in need. Collection Boxes will be located at the Casino Stage at the intersection of Beach and Shore Boulevards during the event. Prior to the event drop off locations include Gulfport Police Department and The Gulfport Area Chamber of Commerce.

Holiday Hoopla takes place on Beach Blvd. S. in Gulfport on December 13 from 10am to 6pm. (GPS: 5500 Shore Blvd. S., Gulfport, FL 33707) The event is sponsored by Bright House Networks, Tampa Bay Times and the City of Gulfport. As always, admission and parking are free.

For more information, please go to http://gulfportma.com/ or call 727-322-5217.

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 Michele Tuegel Gallery
Dazzle everyone on your shopping list this holiday season with artist-made, artist-designed gifts, from boxed holiday cards and ornaments to a collectible splurge! The gallery is brimming with the colorful spirit of the holidays, so we'll be celebrating all day. Bring friends and family and join us for refreshments.
During the regular ArtWalk hours between 5-9 p.m., customers will receive a free stocking stuffer with their purchase, plus we'll be donating a portion of the evening's proceeds to CERF+, the Craft Emergency Relief Fund. It'll be a great day!


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Carolyn Babis at Arts Lofts

The River Series, A Journey From the Outside In. A series of paintings will be on display @ The Art Lofts on Central Avenue in Downtown St. Pete, Studio #210 B. Special event only pricing this evening.

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St. Petersburg's Second Saturday ArtWalk presents over 40 galleries and studios in the Waterfront Arts, Central Arts, EDGE, Grand Central, and the Warehouse Arts District coming together as one arts destination.

Visitors will enjoy artful giving and be the first to see new affordable works of art, as ArtWalk is Opening Night where many galleries and studios premiere new works. Some are only open on ArtWalk, and many offer demonstrations and refreshments. It’s impossible to take in the entire ArtWalk in one night! Plan to drive, walk, or take the trolleys to visit the districts of your choice.

Our free trolley shuttles will have an art guide on board talking about each venue on our one continuous trolley loop that goes from the 3rd Street and Central Avenue to deep in the heart of the Warehouse Arts District. You can park for free on 1st Ave N and 1st Ave S from 15th St to 30th Street. Additional parking will be available for trolley riders in the vacant lot at the Northeast corner of Central Avenue and 29th Street (Please note that this is NOT one of our trolley stops). In addition, venues with large free parking lots are Soft Water Studios, the Morean Center for Clay at the Train Station, the Clay Center of St. Petersburg, the Florida Holocaust Museum and the Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum.

Duke Energy is our sponsor. The St. Petersburg Arts Alliance, the Arts Association St. Petersburg, the EDGE District, the Grand Central District, and the Warehouse Arts District associations coordinate St. Petersburg’s Second Saturday ArtWalk. The St. Petersburg Arts Alliance strives to be the community voice, the umbrella organization for the arts -- facilitating artists, arts organizations and creative businesses to work collaboratively; empowering the growth of the arts community, and driving arts-related economic development.

Give the Gift of Art Handmade, one of a kind, unique, local art make excellent gifts! Browse, watch and purchase “Where Art is Made”!

Trolley Starts Here at 5pm
Craftsman House Gallery - Make it special - give unique, handmade gifts for the holidays! The gallery is transformed into a Holiday Ocean of Art. Select American artists have been invited to show their works related to the holidays & the ocean. Holiday art in blown glass, clay, jewelry, wood, metal, paintings, paperweights, tiles, lamps, silk scarves, … Representing over 300 American artists. https://www.facebook.com/pages/Craftsman-House-Gallery/158706022997

Charlie Parker-Pottery - 2724 6th Avenue S. – Handmade for the Holidays. Looking for that perfect centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table or maybe a new platter and matching gravyboat for your turkey, we have it. Need some great gift ideas for that hard to buy for person in your life, look no further then Charlie Parker Pottery. With over 12 artists to choose from we have something for everyone. https://www.facebook.com/events/1535777223332470/

Zen Glass Studio - 600 27th Street South - Enjoy live glassblowing, auctions, demonstrations and a gallery show of our newest creations. Featuring the works of Zen Glass artists Joshua Poll, Dave Walker, and Christian Zvonik https://www.facebook.com/ZenGlassStudio

Funktionhouse Urban Lumber & Furnishings - 562 25th St. S - One-of-a-kind quality wood furnishings and lighting. Also supply unique slabs, turning blanks, and lumber to artists and craftsmen world-wide using urban trees cut down and discarded from St. Pete neighborhoods. Love for wood and passion for the environment is translated into beautiful warm, modern, and elegant designs. https://www.facebook.com/Funktionhouse

Duncan McClellan Glass - 2342 Emerson Avenue South - Join hot glass artists Mariel Bass and Jacob Stout for the opening of "Holiday Heat". Mariel and Jake will each premiere new bodies of work, and will be blowing glass in the Hot Shop beginning at 6:15 and throughout the evening. https://www.facebook.com/DuncanMcClellanGlass

Clay Center of St. Petersburg - 420 23rd Street South – Hosting a string quartet playing Christmas music while visitors stroll through our 6800 square foot studio. Visit with the artists, see a large bowl throwing and sculpture demonstrations while talking with the artist. Visit our sale gallery for unique holiday gifts! https://www.facebook.com/ClayCenterofStPetersburg

Soft Water Studios - 515 22nd Street South - Featuring a rotating fine art gallery of paintings, photography, pottery and sculpture by our diverse and talented resident artists. Truly a place "where art is made" guests will be able to meet the artist as they open their studios to the public for Artwalk. https://www.facebook.com/sws.art.art/timeline

Mga Sculpture Studio - 515 22nd Street South - A commission driven sculpture facility that specializes in the design, fabrication and installation of sculptural objects in a variety of mediums from cartable materials to metal fabrication. Currently working on several large scale commissions for local private entities and across the country. https://www.facebook.com/MgaSculpture

Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum - 2240 9th Avenue S. - Showcasing a collection of art by noted African American Artists over the holidays. There will be pieces exhibited by some of their most distinguished artists. They will "Deck the Walls." On display will be a collecton of Black Santa's, Black Dolls, and Black Angels as they celebrate the spirit of Christmas. https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dr-Carter-G-Woodson-African-American-Museum/116551169863

Uniquely Original Arts - 915 24th Street South, Angels all around us...mix media. https://www.facebook.com/uniquelyorginalarts?fref=ts

Gallerie 909 - 909 22nd Street South - Shapes of Time, Shades of Concern. Featured artist Marian Howard. https://www.facebook.com/events/254421481394995/

Morean Center for Clay - 420 22nd Street South - Members annual holiday sale offering the largest selection of locally made ceramics. Offering a fabulous selection of gifts for every taste and everyone's budget. https://www.facebook.com/CenterForClay

Richard Clark and Jim Corp - Five Deuces Galleria Building - 420 23rd Street South - Paper and paint, prints and canvas. https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=739036012796403

Nancy Smrekar Art Studio - 2135 3rd Avenue South, Unit #5, Five Deuces Galleria Garden Building. Featuring acrylic/oil paintings in impressionism, realism, and abstract styles by emerging artist Nancy Smrekar. https://www.facebook.com/nancysmrekar.artist

St. Petersburg Opera Company - 2145 1st Ave South - An exhibit of paintings by Mirella Cimato Smith that is themed in conjunction with our upcoming production of Neapolitan Festival / Pagliacci. Mirella is Italian by birth and her work is very colorful and lively. It is well suited to the idea of an Italian street festival. https://www.facebook.com/StPeteOpera

From Mayan Hands - From Mayan Hands - 2006 Second Avenue South - Featuring living Mayan Indian artists work from the highlands of western Guatemala. Their handmade art includes sculpture, santos, dance masks, textiles, ceramics and ceremonial objects. Exhibiting unique 19th and 20th century handmade religious folk art treasures. https://www.facebook.com/NewWorldImportsInc

Creative Clay - 1114 Central Avenue - Live music and the largest folk art collection in the region. On exhibit Gatherings, featuring collections of friends and holiday homecomings. Handmade holiday ornaments and unique gifts. https://www.facebook.com/pages/Creative-Clay/129582707070749?sk=timeline

Trolley Starts Here at 5pm
Feathered Serpent Gallery - 1018 Central Avenue – Featuring "Angels of Light" by Mexican artist Jose SolEda Palacios - mixed media paintings, Mexican chocolate and surprises. Latin American Art and gifts. https://www.facebook.com/events/1527926627452672/

Florida Holocaust Museum - 55 5th Street South - Featuring work by Murray Zimiles, a well-established artist, whose work can be seen in the New York City’s MoMA The Museum of Modern Art, has donated over 120 striking, mixed-media pieces to the Museum's permanent collection.

Michele Tuegel Contemporary - 320 Central Avenue - Good Cheer! Holiday open house - refreshments and a free stocking stuffer gift with purchases that evening. A portion of gallery sales will benefit CERF+, the Craft Emergency Relief Fund, benefiting artists in need across the country and in our own backyard. https://www.facebook.com/MicheleTuegelContemporary/timeline?ref=page_internal

The Gallery - 200 Central Ave S. (entrance on 1st Avenue South across from Midtown Sundries) - An exhibition of new works by Jason Brueck, an artist utilizing digital collage to create images that explore the concept of past versus present. Entrance on the corner of 1st Ave S & 2nd St S. https://www.facebook.com/thegalleryart

SHAPIRO'S Gallery - 300 Beach Drive NE. Featuring 250 of the finest American craftsmen. Unique gifts, jewelry, blown glass, pottery and metal art. https://www.facebook.com/shapirogallery

Lynn Merhige Gallery - 216 Fourth St North - Choose a beautiful porcelain center piece for your holiday table by Robin McKay or purchase a folk art painting by Izzy Friedmann. Izzy donates his proceeds to a food bank in his hometown of Asheville, NC. Izzy's generosity is truly in the spirit of holiday giving. https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lynn-Merhige-Gallery/146904772019134?pnref=story

Art on 1st - 550 First Avenue North – Featuring jewelry by Meredith Haws. Unique trinkets to turn even the toughest Christmas critics. Come shop and toast with us. https://www.facebook.com/Arton1st/timeline?ref=page_internal

Florida CraftArt - 501 Central Avenue – Holiday extravaganza! The ultimate shopping experience with fine jewelry, clay, glass, ornaments & more handcrafted by Florida’s most talented artists. https://www.facebook.com/pages/Florida-Craftsmen-Inc/352815711033?fref=ts

The Art Lofts of St. Petersburg, FL - 10 Fifth Street North (upstairs) - Art for Giving is a group show featuring the work of ArtLofts’ artists. Work includes photography, painting, sculpture, jewelry, copper, & mixed media. ArtLofts at Florida CraftArt is a community of 18+ working artist studios, located directly above Florida CraftArt https://www.facebook.com/artlofts

St. Pete Art Works - 635 Central Ave - A cooperative art gallery with guest artist exhibitions and multimedia events.
Featured artist: Wire and mixed media sculpture by Judy Vienneau https://www.facebook.com/St.PeteArtWorks?fref=ts

Graphi-ko Gallery/ Jewelry - 669 Central Avenue - Continues its exposition, Impressions, featuring the work of Emmy Award Winner Jerry Penacoli, host of Daytime and correspondent for Extra, and Sarasota artist, Painter Loki. https://www.facebook.com/pages/Graphi-ko-Gallery-Jewelry/125300180883521

Strands of Sunshine - 8 Sixth Street N - Find locally crafted goods, Christmas tree ornaments, holiday and Judacia jewelry by Armillata Designs, and a special collection of Strands of Sunshine jewelry. Gift wrapping station for all in-store purchases. Customize a sweet, handcrafted tag to top off your thoughtful gift! https://www.facebook.com/StrandsofSunshine/timeline

Morean Arts Center - 719 Central Avenue - No Time Like the Presents Holiday Show and Sale continuing thru the first week of Jan. "Art" the Morean dolphin will be campaigning to buy local, buy unique, buy art this Holiday season. Offering a fabulous selection of gifts for every taste and everyone's budget. https://www.facebook.com/MoreanArtsCenter/timeline

ARTicles Art Gallery & Custom Framing - 1445 Central Avenue - Featured Artist: The Crafty Hag / Coralette Damme celebrates each holiday season by making delightful handcrafted art treasures (linoleum block, wood cut, rubber stamp and silk screen prints) inspired by wonder, nostalgia, and the natural world. Come see what she's been up to this Fall! https://www.facebook.com/ArTiclesIncCustomFramingArtGallery

1 of 1 Customs - Handpainted Everything!/Q Rubini - 1701 1st Avenue North - Custom painted everything, putting paint where it ain't! Handcrafted leather goods. Hand smocked children's clothing. Free samples of Mo's Mint Julep Craft Soda Pop. https://www.facebook.com/pages/1-of-1-Customs-Handpainted-Everything/115016055207067

Us Artists Group, LLC- Electric Zoo Studios - 1741 First Avenue North - Video/Audio and graphic production studios and live event space for video/film/art and music projects. Utilizing a large green screen "cyc" wall provides scenic music video productions and "live" performances, plus corporate, art charities and specialty projects. https://www.facebook.com/pages/Us-Artists-Group-LLC-Electric-Zoo-Studios/693304274028442?ref=br_tf

Art Central Studios - Art Central Building, 2109 Central Avenue, 2nd Floor - Six established visual artists - Carol Dameron, Mary Grieco, Frank Lewis, John Bartone, Herb Snitzer and Zala Highsmith, will be showing and speaking about their most recent works. http://www.artcentralstudios.com/

Grand Central Stained Glass & Graphics - 2401 Central Avenue - An array of terrific glass artists on hand, each working on their current piece - stained glass, fused glass or mosaics! Curious? Want to chat? The students are happy to visit with you, answering questions about the art form and more. Sweet treats, coffees, teas, and cocoa are always available! https://www.facebook.com/grandcentralstainedglass/timeline

Creative Soul Studio : Coffee, Wine, Art - 2425 Central Avenue, The return of Jonathan Madzinga our African artist in residence. https://www.facebook.com/CreativeSoulStudio

Augustine Ludovico Studio & Academy of Art - 2851 1stAve North - Experience the extraordinary gift of portrait artist, Eckwood Ellison. Seeing his demonstration is a must! Also on display - work by James McPhail, Chuck Staunko, the resident artists, and many more Paintings and jewelry for sale, with artists available to visit. Light hors d'oeuvres. Stop by to get that perfect gift for someone special! https://www.facebook.com/AugustineLudovicoStudio

Our partner associations also have great listings for art events!!
Keep Saint Petersburg Local
Grand Central District Association
Historic Kenwood Neighborhood Association

Choose 4 or 5 to visit this Saturday then come back the next Second Saturday to visit more!


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Hi-5, Celebrating FIVE years of TEMPUS Projects in Seminole Heights
Opening Reception: Saturday, December 13, 7–10 PM
4636 N. Florida Avenue, Tampa, FL

TEMPUS Projects presents ”Hi-5, Celebrating FIVE years of TEMPUS Projects in Seminole Heights”, an exhibition of works on paper with the theme of ‘FIVE’, as well as featuring some of our very favorite and most talented artists from the last five years. This exhibition opens on Saturday, December 13th with an opening reception from 7-10 PM and runs through January 3 , 2015 . Exhibiting artists include George Anderton, Wendy Babcox, Hildebrando Bellizzio, Neil Bender, Jeremy Chandler, Ryan De La Hoz, Becky Flanders, Corbett Fogue, Joe Griffith, Vince Kral, Gigi Lage, Lauren Moradi, Justin Bryan Nelson, Kym O’Donnell, Taylor Pilote, Anthony Record, Mario Schambon, Ryann Slauson, Brian Taylor, Christopher Wharton and more.

The Hi-5 celebration is also our annual fundraiser. The event is free and open to the public but a suggested donation of $5 is greatly appreciated. With every $5 donation attendees will receive a raffle ticket and a chance to win our last remaining Sustainer Container. Sustainer Container members receive a free gift from either Tempus Projects, a featured artists, or one of our generous sponsors at every opening reception, through May of 2015...it's a locker full of fabulous surprises that just keeps getting better! Our Sustainers are also welcomed to the gallery a half-hour early to every opening reception to enjoy refreshments and to celebrate with a guest curator, featured artists or other Tempus VIPs. Additional raffle tickets can be purchased to increase your chances of winning the last coveted Sustainer Container and other fun prizes , gift certificates and gift baskets from local business !

In addition to the opening reception and fundraiser, Tempus Projects will be hosting a Hi-5 POP-UP Shop, featuring artist prints, a selection of curated art books from Blue Bird Books Bus, and special limited edition of Tempus Tees created for the T EMPUS five year celebration. The pop up-shop will also feature small-scale original artworks for under $500. Our POP-UP shop is a great place to pick up artist merchandise such as notebooks, buttons, stationary, wallets, tees, barware, stickers, cards, and other great treats and gifts just in time for the holidays...so bring your shopping list and get ready to shop! The Hi-5 POP-UP Shop opens Saturday, December 13, 2014 just in time for all the other festivities. The Hi-5 POP-UP Shop will remain open with extended hours through the year-end holidays.

Located at 4636 N. Florida Ave.Tampa, Florida 33603 in South Seminole Heights, TEMPUS P rojects is highly regarded as cultural catalyst and a neighborhood touchstone. It has contributed greatly to the district’s emergence as a unique and creative local destination. In acknowledgment of its contributions to the arts and the community, Tampa’s Creative Loafing awarded TEMPUS Projects the "Best Alternative Art Space" Loafie award for four consecutive years. TEMPUS Projects has worked in collaboration with Experimental Skeleton, Silver Meteor Gallery, Tampa’s Downtown Partnership, Blue Bird Books and Creative Loafing.



What: Hi-5, Celebrating FIVE years of Tempus Projects in Seminole Heights; Public reception/art exhibition & POP UP SHOP, refreshments.
When: Saturday, December 13, 2014, 7-10 pm
Where: Tempus Projects , 4636 N. Florida Ave. Tampa, FL 33603
More: After Party at the Mermaid Tavern, 10 pm.
This opening reception is sponsored in part by the Mermaid Tavern.
Please join us at the Mermaid after the opening at 6719 N Nebraska Ave. Tampa, FL 33604

Media Contact:
Tracy Midulla Reller, TEMPUS Projects Founder and Creative Director
www.tempus-projects.com
tempusprojects.art@gmail.com
813.340.9056


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mmmm

Saturday, December 6, 2014

This Walk Among the Tombstones Weekend, Sat 12/6 and Sun 12/7 2014

Nineteen days to Christmas, and I wish it was already over. Bah, Humbug. 2014 too. Glad I didn't go to Art Blah-sel. It seems less relevant every year.

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Saturday, Dec 6th




AQUA ART MIAMI // ROOM #107 DECEMBER 3-7

Mindy Solomon Gallery is pleased to be part of the 10th edition of Aqua Art Miami, which holds a "particular interest in supporting young and established galleries with strong emerging and mid-career artists." Featuring works by Pierre Mabille and Dominique Labauvie in Mindy Solomon Gallery room #107.

Fair Hours:
Access for Art Miami, CONTEXT, Aqua Art Miami VIP Cardholders & Press
Wednesday, December 3 // VIP Preview 3 pm - 10 pm

General Admission:
Thursday, December 4 12 pm - 9 pm
Friday, December 5 11 am - 9 pm
Saturday, December 6 11 am - 9 pm... See More

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We have placed book donation bins all over town to collect books for The Christmas Toy Shop. http://www.christmastoyshop.org/

We are accepting donations of new or gently used children and young adult books until December 18th.

You can find our donation bins at these participating locations:

St. Pete Shuffleboard Club
Banyan Cafe & Catering
Growing Up
Acupuncture and Herbal Therapies
Lonni's Sandwiches Downtown
Creative Clay... See More

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Join us Saturday, Dec. 6th for our annual holiday sale featuring the many talented artists at Charlie Parker Pottery. Enjoy cookies and cider while you shop and for a small donation or purchase of $20 or more join us at the champagne bar. Come check out our in-house specials this day only! 

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You and yours are invited to the Zen Glass Studio 13th annual holiday party and gift sale.
A "Festival of Light"
Drinks - Eats - Arts - Fire - Glass - Party - Music

All Day & Night
Sale starts at 10am
Party starts around 7pm

- DJ - M.P. will be spinning records -
- Lourenda Pearl Cooper will be selling her knit hats -
- Mark Tomac will have one of a kind t-shirt art Mark Nicholas Island Tattoo
- Glass galore from all of the studio artists will be available for sale ... See More
 


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"The Sublime Operator and the Science of Dropped Calls"

>>December 6 will be the party for the Three Year Ventureversary - Champagne is encouraged, partying is
mandatory<<

7pm - $5

Largely taking inspiration from cognitive processes, Blasko's work frequently maps out these internal functions by referencing complex systems in the external world such as architectural drawings, blueprints, floor plans, technical illustrations, and various types of mapping. His artwork is analytically developed, yet retains a playful character as skillfully conceived components are often blended with found objects.

http://eliblasko.com/

In addition to creating an installation piece in The Venture
Compound, Blasko will be performing with Sean Hamilton (Director of the Hyperbolic Chamber Music series), Kevin von Kampen (percussion) and Jacqui Dugal (dance).

7pm - opening reception
8:30pm - Performance

(ONE of THREE)

Day One: https://www.facebook.com/events/302057023317248/?ref=5

Day Two: https://www.facebook.com/events/826157944100967/?ref=5

Day Three: https://www.facebook.com/events/1736704726555561/


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"My Love MHz lives in New York City and creates understated electronic music that is as equally influenced by modern digital culture as it is by Krautrock and Berlin-school electronic artists of the 70's. It is founded on the idea that even in the precise, cold, calculative world of computer music, tribal rhythms and emotions are undeniably emergent."

Proxemia - St. Petersburg
www.soundcloud.com/proxemia

Incandesced - St. Petersburg
www.incandesced.bandcamp.com

Dogs in Reverse - Lakeland
www.facebook.com/dogsinreverse

8PM // $5 // All Ages // BYOB
 

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Calling all poets, musicians, storytellers, comedians - whatever your talent come on out and show us what you got at Sunday Nite Open Mic. Always held the first Sunday each month. Duckweed is located in the heart of downtown Tampa and all meters are FREE on Sundays.

What happened to the musicians last month? Was it too cold? We poets must be a heartier group cause we came out in force, the musicians, not so much. I promise our sound guy Moe St. Evergreen can make anyone sound awesome. Check us out.

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 mmmm

The Bondi Sculpture by the Sea Festival.





In Australia, there is a yearly festival that brings sculptures and installations to their famous Bondi Breach for three weeks. The Bondi Sculpture by the Sea Festival merges art with the intrinsic attraction of their beach, making it a temporary public seaside art space. 

 

It is a highly successful festival that brings a huge number of visitors -- and tourist dollars --to an already popular beach. The festival is so successful that it has been emulated in other countries with beaches.

Florida has over 700 miles of sandy, usable beaches. It is only a matter of time before Miami Beach does this. Think of what a great festival this would make for say, Saint Pete Beach. It is unfortunate that Pinellas County has zero regard for the arts, given its $0.00 (Nothing) arts budget. 



 This is a proven fomula that has been repeated in various locations all over the world. It could easily work here, and requires zero vision on the part of the County, just mimicking what has been done in several places successfully. It seems perfect for Pinellas County Beaches.

--- Luis

mmmm

Monday, November 24, 2014

Blue Lucy Closes

Five years ago, when the 600 block of Central was opened, there were over ten galleries.. Blue Lucy, then under the dual ownership of Philip Clark and Chad Mize, was there. Five years later, the gallery has announced it will close its doors at the end of December.

In those five years, the number of galleries on the block was decimated, partially due to the economic Depression that began around 2007 and continues to this day. The rest is due to persistent problems with the manager of the 600 block, Gary Burnside.

From an article by Megan Voeller in Creative Loafing, from 2010:

"Anyone familiar with the standard narrative of gentrification -- first the artists move in, then big business comes knocking -- has to wonder if the Crislip's creative commune vibe will be crashed by the equivalent of a Starbucks -- or any tenant who can afford to pay top dollar for the space. "That's not my agenda," says Gaffney, who is quick to note that he's no philanthropist and doesn't plan to replicate the Crislip experiment with his other investments. Tenants like Bluelucy point to five-year leases in support of their faith in the developer's intentions, though other tenants have signed for much shorter terms. Burnside is more direct:
"I know the money that [Gaffney has] spent, and I know the rents that are coming in -- and I can sum it up in a few words: think of it as a gift to the city," he says."

However, in conversation, Burnside often boasted of how much additional money in rents was being generated as he assiduously raised the rents of all tenants, with one exception. As galleries left, he openly talked about getting rid of the arts tenants and bringing in retail businesses to replace them. I have in my possession a copy of an insulting letter he sent to several of his tenants where he openly said this.

When Blue Lucy's five year lease (which proved a brilliant decision, or his rent would have been raised much sooner) ended, Chad Mize was confronted with a large increase in rent, and like other tenants, he decided to get out, announcing the closing today.

The Blue Lucy announcement:

"BlueLucy will be exiting the The 600 Block of St. Petersburg at the end of this year. We have had an amazing 5 years at this wonderful location. We've seen many artists and art lovers come through our door. We've helped start collections and push an artist or two. Sometimes a location/space can become too much of the same. After 30 separate exhibits in this one location we are ready for something new. We will continue to curate art exhibits throughout the year. New spaces and new ideas await."

Blue Lucy put together a solid series of shows over its five years. Chad Mize is a master at creating pop themes with back stories in the collective imagination and memory.

There are now two artists left in the Crislip Arcade. Turnover in the 600 blk remains high, and there is nervousness among some of the other tenants.

In spite of occasionally butting heads, I want to personally thank Chad  Mize for being a major influence on the Saint Petersburg Florida arts scene and for his consistently professional demeanor. I wish him the best in any future endeavors, though I suspect we will be seeing more of him soon.

This sordid episode is repeating itself all over the US (and world) as artists are used to break the (unrentable) blight in properties, saddled with build-outs and then driven out ASAP by their landlords.

Lather, rinse, repeat.

--- Luis


Saturday, November 22, 2014

This Shopapalooza Weekend, Saturday, November 22nd, 2014








See. Hear. Feel. is a multi-sensory experience focusing on Alzheimer’s disease.

This emotional gallery-style show features visual arts, poetry and music working together to tell the story of memories lost to Alzheimer's disease. This event aims to bring awareness to this devastating ailment.

Eight collaborative art installations include photographs from Rossie Newson, poems by Gloria Muñoz & music by La Lucha. On Friday & Saturday evenings, each artist will perform and speak about their involvement. Partial proceeds from admissions will benefit the USF Health Byrd Alzheimer's Institute, which is dedicated to the prevention, treatment and cure of Alzheimer's disease and related disorders.

Mark Feinman is the sixth of six artists who have been given a HUGE boost with time, space, mentors, volunteers, and funding to turn their concept into a series of performances. The Studio@620 Project Gen Yes! is a concept to performance accelerator for jazz, dance, and theatre made possible by the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation.

Award winning artist, vocalist, writer, and mentor who has been involved with the Studio@620 since its inception ten years ago, Sharon Scott, has been the mentor for these millennial artists.

See. Hear. Feel. takes place Friday and Saturday, November 21 & 22 at 7PM and Sunday, November 23 12 at 3PM

Admission is $1
5, $10 students or seniors.
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FINAL WEEKEND!

"Get a gaggle of salty friends together. Have a couple of cocktails. Throw some sass at the cast and the energy should be repaid in full [...] light and silly, like if vaudeville got a little drunk [...] The show is not for kids, but it's unlikely to seriously offend most [...] If you swap pearls for a sense of humor, you're going to have a great time at the show" - Tampa Bay Times

"outlandishly funny performances ... [Hines] is impressive in drag ... [Bohnenkamp] is calm, calculating and sure of herself ... the supporting cast, in multiple roles, is good ... a fun, silly romp" - TBO.com

"Busch's campy brand of depravity was perfectly executed [...] [Bohnenkamp] is a sheer delight onstage as one half of the eponymous duo; managing to create a fun blend of menacing and cattiness. As her nemesis [Hines] holds his own among the other Jobsite vets." - BroadwayWorld.com (Desiree Fantal)

"Hines is ever-animated as he goes from sad, little sacrificial lamb, to fiery, classic Hollywood vamp, to a washed up, yet headstrong Las Vegas showgirl in 0 to 60 [Bohnenkamp] is a forceful spitfire, ready to take on any who would dare stand in her way. Bohnenkamp leads each new persona with much of the same assuredness [...] it’s all so outlandish, but oh so enjoyable." - Only in Tampa Bay

"[Hines'] drag turn in the Charles Busch cult classic is like a master class in camp ... this production is marvelous fun that should be celebrated by all local theatergoers. Definitely see VLOS for the unapologetic mindless amusement and for camp done right. But mainly see it to experience one of the best performances of the year." - BroadwayWorld.com (Peter Nason)

"a laugh-out-loud funny satire ... perhaps the show’s greatest feat is that by injecting the narrative with a good dose of silliness instead of sensuality, [it] is able to aim its biting wit at perhaps its most apt target -- the association of vampires with sex. From penis shaped spears to the more subtle wordplay, it runs the full gamut." - The Sunlit Tome

Jobsite joins a nationwide tribute to the master of camp comedy, 30 Years of Charles Busch – A Celebration, in conjunction with our favorite holiday!

One of the longest running plays in Off-Broadway history, Vampire Lesbians of Sodom tells the saga of two fatally seductive vampiresses, a virgin sacrifice (Coco & Homo’s Zachary Hines) and her maker (veteran Jobsiteer Summer Bohnenkamp), whose paths first collide in ancient Sodom. Their bitter rivalry endures for nearly two thousand years with stops along the way in 1920’s silent movie Hollywood and contemporary Las Vegas. Moving between histrionics of classic horror cinema and the cheerful nastiness of the backstage melodrama of manners All About Eve, Vampire Lesbians sparkles with spectacle, homage and double entendre.

Jobsite’s production of Vampire Lesbians of Sodom features live music and burlesque/cabaret-style interludes under the music direction of J. Elijah Cho.

“Charles Busch makes it very clear that this was never meant to be performed as a traditional play but as a burlesque,” offers director David M. Jenkins. “We’ve got a collection of numbers that range in periods and styles from the 1916 class My Man to LUDO's 2008 Love Me Dead. Some are outright nightclub acts to help cover costume changes while others look to help bridge the periods in the show and tell a little bit more of a story.” Cho will accompany on stage acoustically.

Some of Jobsite’s most successful and memorable productions have been focused around Halloween – from last year’s Macbeth to the monochromatic musical Gorey Stories to Clive Barker’s History of the Devil. Fans of last year’s season opener, Hedwig and the Angry Inch, will certainly not want to miss this drag-tastic romp of a burlesque that also features Spencer Meyers, who played Hedwig, as a vampire hunter hot on the heels of our heroines. Spencer P. Meyers also has created multiple new paintings for the gallery in the theater, and guests can get a limited edition print with a donation to the company.

Jobsite is thankful for the marketing support of Watermark for this show and the season sponsorship of Gobioff Foundation, Creative Loafing Tampa, Arts Council of Hillsborough County, Florida Division of Cultural Affairs, Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners, Illumination Advertising, Inc. and the David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts

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An outdoor fine craft festival featuring over 120 of the nation's finest craft artists.

Artist demonstrations. interactive activities, delicious food truck fare and the best in locally crafted beer.

10:00am - 5:00pm November 22-23.


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Shopapalooza, in its fifth year, brings together more than 120 vendors and 5,000 shoppers for a fun-filled day of shopping in downtown St. Pete! Admission is free.

This family-friendly event features:
- Giveaways & raffles
- Beer Garden by Rotary Club Sunset St. Petersburg
- 130+ Retail and Art Vendors
- Children’s Area by Great Explorations
- Food. food, food!
- Trop Rock Junkies

For media and sponsorship information, email Mo Venouziou at events@localshops1.com.


Shopapalooza is a production of LocalShops1

2014 sponsors:
TBO.com/ St. Petersburg Tribune
Bright House Networks Business Solutions
City of St. Petersburg
American Stage Theater Company
Moorman Photographics
Sunset Rotary Club of St. Petersburg
Great Explorations Children's Museum
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Featured Exhibition at St. Pete Art Works

MORE WIRE...and More
Wire and Mixed Media Sculpture by
Judy Vienneau

November 18 – December 13, 2014

OPENING RECEPTION
Saturday November 22
6 - 9 pm

FREE and open to the Public.

AT:
St Pete ArtWorks
635 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg 33701
Gallery Open Hours:
Tuesday – Saturday 11 am – 6 pm
Second Saturdays 'til 9pm
Gallery Phone: 727-710-7716


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mmmm

Wednesday, November 19, 2014

Stopping the ethnic cleansing of Artists with a not-so-new paradigm.





About fifteen years ago, Bradenton made a daring move in re-designating a residential area consisting of 1930's bungalows in an area formerly occupied by a large hospital. The artists and other entrepeneurial visionaries fought for a rezoning of the 36 acres of the Village into a customized multiple-use designation allowing galleries, restaurants and cafes in lived-in homes.

The owners must live in the houses. They have gallery walks every First Friday and Saturday, are closed during the off-season (summer).

I look at this as having great potential in Saint Petersburg, where greedy landlords and developers are consistently pushing out artists towards the West (Gulfport) and South St. Pete, which is poised to begin a renaissance, starting with the Deuces area, 22nd and 9th S. Combination homes/businesses could work to delay the displacement of artists, as well as creating an arts district owned by artists, not landlords.

It is a relatively low-buck idea that requires little (from a city that  gives little) money, and would work as a decentralized artists' enclave of sorts, not in competition with existing districts, but in addition to them. It could work as a revitalizing influence on the South Side as well.

I am not advocating replicating what they did, but learning from them what works and recontextualizing this idea into the twenty-teens.

----  Luis

Thursday, November 13, 2014

My 2nd Saturday...

2nd Saturday is the Artwalk in Saint Petersburg. This is what my list looked like last week...




---- Luis

First Tampa AIA Pop-up Design Fest.

The AIA held the 1st Pop-up Design Fest on Saturday, November 8th on Franklin Street.



Playing blocks for young designers.



By Ryan Swanson.





By Mishou Sanchez and two other designers.












 






Drawing on the City.




At play.





Looking N. on Franklin.

--- Luis
mmm